What coolant does a Ford EcoSport take?

The Ford EcoSport typically requires a long‑life ethylene glycol coolant that meets Ford’s EC-1 specification (WSS-M97B51-A1). The recommended OEM product is Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant, usually sold as a premixed 50/50 solution. Always verify the exact specification for your year and market in the owner’s manual or with a Ford dealer.

Understanding the coolant specification and compatibility

The EcoSport’s cooling system is designed to use a coolant that conforms to Ford’s EC-1 standard, sometimes referenced as WSS-M97B51-A1. Using a coolant that does not meet this specification can compromise protection against corrosion, freezing, and overheating. Color alone is not a reliable indicator of compatibility, so always check the label or documentation that accompanies the product.

The following list highlights approved options and practical considerations for choosing coolant that meets EC-1.

• Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant – a Ford‑approved long‑life coolant that meets EC-1/WSS-M97B51-A1 and is commonly recommended for EcoSport models.


• Other OEM-approved coolants that explicitly certify compliance with Ford EC-1/WSS-M97B51-A1 on their packaging are acceptable substitutes.


• Premixed 50/50 formulations are convenient and reduce the risk of incorrect dilution; if you buy concentrate, mix with distilled water according to the label to achieve the correct ratio.

In practice, choosing a coolant that carries the Ford EC-1 certification (or a Ford‑approved equivalent) is the safest route. If you’re unsure about regional availability or exact requirements for your EcoSport’s year and engine, consult the owner’s manual or a Ford dealership.

Practical maintenance and replacement steps

When checking or replacing coolant in a Ford EcoSport, follow these general steps to ensure proper protection and system performance.

1. Ensure the engine is completely cool before opening the cooling system cap or draining coolant to avoid burns.


2. If switching to EC-1 compliant coolant, perform a proper flush to remove any incompatible residue from the old coolant.


3. Fill with a premixed EC-1 compliant coolant (typically Motorcraft Premium Gold) or mix concentrate with distilled water to achieve a 50/50 balance as directed on the product label.


4. Start the engine, allow it to reach operating temperature, and bleed any air from the cooling system as required by the model. Recheck the level and top off if needed.

Regularly checking coolant level and ensuring the correct specification helps protect the engine and cooling system. Do not mix coolant types or use non‑EC‑1 coolants unless explicitly approved for your vehicle.

Regional variations and sources of authority

While EC-1 is the common Ford specification in many markets, regional differences can occur. Always refer to the EcoSport’s owner’s manual or contact a local Ford dealer to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle’s year and region. Using OEM Ford products, such as Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant, is a reliable starting point when shopping for replacement coolant.

Summary

For most Ford EcoSport models, the recommended coolant is a long‑life ethylene glycol coolant that meets Ford EC‑1 (WSS‑M97B51‑A1). The easiest and safest option is Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant in premixed 50/50 form, or another EC‑1 certified coolant approved by Ford for your market. Always verify the exact specification in your manual or with a dealer, and avoid mixing different coolant chemistries. If in doubt, consult a qualified technician to ensure proper application and service intervals.

Does Ford require special coolant?

Every car manufacturer, including Ford has developed its own coolant or requires a specific coolant that is unique to individual years and models. There are several colors of coolants to help distinguish each including green, blue, yellow, purple red, and orange.

What kind of coolant does a 2019 Ford Ecosport take?

Yellow fluid. Universal Phosphate Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) Organic Acid Technology (OAT) Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT) compatibility. Extended life 50/50 prediluted antifreeze coolant.

What color is Ford's antifreeze?

Ford coolant has been orange in older models and is now a yellow (sometimes appearing lime green) coolant for newer vehicles, starting around late 2018 or early 2019. The new yellow coolant is designed to replace the older orange coolant and is backwards compatible, though it's often recommended to do a full flush for optimal performance and protection.
 
Coolant colors and details

• Orange: This was the standard coolant for many Ford vehicles from approximately 2011 to 2018. It's an ethylene glycol-based, long-life coolant that may sometimes appear pinkish. 
• Yellow: This is the newer, recommended coolant. It is also known as "P-OAT" and has a longer service interval than the orange coolant. 
  • Some users report it has a slight green tint, but it is officially labeled as yellow. 
  • It is backwards compatible with the older orange coolant. 
  • It is recommended to use distilled water when mixing with the new yellow coolant. 

Important considerations

• Mixing: While the new yellow coolant is designed to be compatible with the old orange coolant, it is best practice to perform a full system flush and refill to get the most benefit from the newer formula and ensure proper protection, especially for newer vehicles. 
• Warranty: Ford recommends using the correct coolant to avoid potential damage to the engine or cooling system, which may not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. 
• Discontinued orange coolant: Ford has officially discontinued the orange coolant, but some aftermarket brands may still offer it. 
• Correct specification: Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific Ford specification your vehicle requires (e.g., WSS-M97B44-D or WSS-M97B44-D2 for the orange coolant) to ensure you are using the correct product, especially when adding a top-off. 

Which coolant to use in Ford Ecosport?

The Ford EcoSport uses either Motorcraft Yellow (P-OAT) or Orange (OAT) coolant, depending on the model year. While the colors are different, Ford states they are compatible and can be mixed, although it is recommended to stick to one type or switch to yellow during a full system flush. 
This video explains the difference between Ford's orange and yellow coolants and discusses whether you should upgrade: 59sFordTechMakulocoYouTube · Oct 19, 2020
Coolant types for the Ford EcoSport

• Yellow: This is Ford's newer P-OAT (Phosphate-based Organic Acid Technology) coolant, often recommended for models from around 2019 onwards. It is considered a more advanced option with a longer service life. 
• Orange: This was the Original Equipment (OE) coolant for many earlier EcoSport models and is a clone of GM's Dex-Cool. 

Important considerations

• Mixing: Ford states that the new yellow coolant can be mixed with the older orange coolant. However, to avoid potential issues, it is best to stick with one type. 
• Distilled water: If you are using the new yellow P-OAT coolant, it is recommended to mix it with distilled water, as tap water can react negatively with its phosphate-based formula. 
• Check the owner's manual: The best way to ensure you have the correct coolant is to check your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific recommendation, as requirements can vary by model year. 

You can watch this video to learn about Ford's new yellow coolant and how to mix it with distilled water: 36sCanadian CruisinYouTube · Oct 23, 2021